Photography

A good time to start looking for a photographer and/or videographer is about nine to twelve months in advance. Begin with recommendations from family and friends, looking through albums for quality, style and formats that you like. Some criteria to keep in mind when interviewing photographers include:

PS. My answers in bracket.

1. Do the photos have a sharp, crisp quality? ……………(All the time)
2. Can they do retouching? What about special effects? …. (Yes), (Yes)
3. Will there be an extra charge for the negatives or CD? ….(Negotiable) 
4. Does the quoted price include an album? ……… (According to package) 
5. Check for a mix of shots that are technically good. 
6. Is the person who is showing you the photos the same person who will be shooting your wedding……………………………  (Yes)
7. Discuss costs. Work out a clear payment schedule, and obtain an itemized agreement that lists everything included in the package and the total cost.
8. Can he/she arrive early to capture last-minute preparations, moments with family members, and the little events that make the day complete….(Yes)
9. Will he/she design your album for you? ………….( if you request)
10.  Do you feel confident with the person and feel that he will perform professionally, inconspicuous and deliver great pictures? ………… (Your answer should be a big YES)

Videography

The best time to start looking for a videographer is about nine to twelve months in advance. Begin with recommendations from family and friends, looking through tapes for quality, style and formats that you like. As you view a tape with the videographer, look for pans and zooms. Are they smooth? Does the tape tell a story? Here are some questions to ask when interviewing videographers:

What does the video package include?

1. Edited tape ……………………………………  (Yes
2. Multi-camera ………………………………….  (Yes)
3. Montage of stills ……………………………… (Yes)
4. Titles ……………………………………………(Yes)
5. Narration ……………………………………..(If request)
6. Background music …………………………. (Yes)
7. Close-up shots ……………………………..  (Yes)
8. Interviews with family, wedding party, guests ……(yes, that’s a must)
9. Can your taping be serious or humorous? Are creative options available?
10. Discuss costs. Work out a clear payment schedule.
11. Obtain an itemized agreement that lists everything included in the package and the total cost.
12. How many tapes come with the package? What is the cost for extra tapes?
13. How is the tape packaged professionally? Does it have a case and printed labels?  .(Yes)
14. Is a deposit required? If so, how much? …………(Yes) 50%
15. How many hours does the price include?
16. Can he/she arrive early to capture last-minute preparations, moments with family members and unexpected situations? ………..(Yes)
17. How is overtime handled? 
18. How far in advance must reservations be made?
19. What is the cancellation policy?
20. Can you select the background music, and is there a large selection to choose from?(Yes)
21. What kind of camera equipment will be used? Is it consumer or commercial quality equipment? ....................................  (Sony DCR VX2100 3ccd Video Camera)
22. What is the format? (Should be hi-8, mini DV or super VHS) ………. (Mini DV)
23. Will there be sufficient light available at the time and location of the ceremony? ( Own lights)
24. Sound: The best videographers are using a wireless microphone (example: True Diversity) to get clean, clear audio…………. (wireless microphone)
25. Is the person who is showing you the videos the same person who will be shooting your wedding? ……….(Yes)
26.   What will the videographer's attire be?

One last note: both of you must feel confident that this videographer will perform professionally and inconspicuously, and deliver a great video. Good luck.